Hobart and TLD are two of the most common names on diesel ground power units (GPUs). Both build towable, trailer-mounted units that supply 400 Hz AC power to parked aircraft. The real differences are in model range, output options and where each unit fits on your ramp.
Quick Answer: Pick the brand by the model, not the badge. Hobart units listed at Victory GSE cover 90 kVA AC, 28.5 VDC starting and hangar converters. TLD units listed here cover 90 to 180 kVA AC. Choose Hobart for DC or hangar needs, and TLD for higher kVA ratings.
This guide compares the Hobart and TLD units listed at Victory GSE, side by side. If you still need to decide between AC and DC power, read our guide on 400 Hz vs. 28 VDC ground power first.
Who Makes Hobart and TLD Ground Power Units?
Hobart is a long-running American ground power brand now owned by ITW GSE. Hobart was founded in 1946 as an Ohio company, according to Ground Support Worldwide. In 2014, Illinois Tool Works grouped Hobart under ITW GSE. It kept the Hobart name because customers knew it.
TLD is part of the Alvest Group and builds a wide range of ramp equipment. Its lineup includes GPUs, belt loaders, pushbacks, baggage tractors and stairs. A 2020 Ground Support Worldwide company spotlight put TLD’s engineering staff at about 200, with more than 400 Alvest employees in after-sales support and parts.
Both brands have deep installed bases, so you will see their units at airlines, FBOs and military bases. That matters for operators, since crews often already know the controls.
Hobart GPUs Listed at Victory GSE
Hobart is the broader lineup at Victory GSE. It covers 90 kVA AC units, 28.5 VDC starting units and a hangar frequency converter.
The Hobart 90CU20 / 90CU24-P5 is rated at 90 kVA. It delivers 115/200 volt, 400 Hz, three-phase AC power from a Cummins diesel engine. The Hobart 90D20-PLD is also a 90 kVA unit, built into a compact, towable trailer.
For DC power, Hobart offers the Jet-Ex line. The Hobart Jet-Ex 5D delivers 28.5 volt DC at 600 amps and runs on a Cummins 4B4.5T engine. The Hobart Jet-Ex 4D supplies 28.5 volt DC power and can start any fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter with a DC receptacle.
The Hobart PoWerMaster ADV Plus is a different kind of unit. It is a solid state frequency converter for hangar use. It offers 90 kVA output and optional 28.5 VDC.
TLD GPUs Listed at Victory GSE
TLD units at Victory GSE focus on 400 Hz AC power, with higher kVA ratings available. Both listed TLD models are diesel-driven, self-contained and trailer-mounted.
The TLD ACE-4120 provides continuous 120 kVA power. Its listing notes that the related ACE-4140 puts out 140 kVA. Both supply regulated 400 Hz power to a parked aircraft when its on-board generators are off.
The TLD GPU-4000 is the most flexible TLD unit listed. Depending on its options, it can provide 90 kVA, 120 kVA, 140 kVA or up to 180 kVA continuously. That range covers regional jets through wide-body aircraft.
Hobart vs. TLD GPUs Compared
The table compares the Hobart and TLD units listed at Victory GSE. Specs come from each unit’s Victory GSE product page.
| Model | Brand | Output | Rating | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90CU20 / 90CU24-P5 | Hobart | 400 Hz AC, 115/200 V | 90 kVA | Towable diesel |
| 90D20-PLD | Hobart | 400 Hz AC | 90 kVA | Towable diesel |
| Jet-Ex 4D | Hobart | 28.5 VDC | DC power and starting | Towable diesel |
| Jet-Ex 5D | Hobart | 28.5 VDC | 600 A | Towable diesel |
| PoWerMaster ADV Plus | Hobart | 400 Hz AC, optional 28.5 VDC | 90 kVA | Hangar solid state converter |
| ACE-4120 | TLD | 400 Hz AC | 120 kVA (ACE-4140: 140 kVA) | Towable diesel |
| GPU-4000 | TLD | 400 Hz AC | 90 to 180 kVA by option | Towable diesel |
Weighing a Hobart or TLD GPU?
Tell us your aircraft types and power needs. Victory GSE in Los Angeles can help you buy, rent or lease the right unit.
Which Brand Fits Your Operation?
The right brand depends on your aircraft and where you park them. Start with output type, then kVA or amps, then mounting.
Light aircraft, turboprops and helicopters: Hobart is the fit here, since the Jet-Ex 4D and 5D are the DC units in this comparison. No TLD DC unit is listed at Victory GSE right now.
Narrow-body and regional jets: Both brands work. A 90 kVA Hobart 90CU20 or 90D20-PLD covers most of this work. A TLD GPU-4000 set at 90 kVA does the same job.
Wide-body aircraft and heavy loads: TLD has the edge on rating. The ACE-4120 offers 120 kVA, and the GPU-4000 reaches 180 kVA with the right options.
Hangars and fixed positions: The Hobart PoWerMaster ADV Plus runs from facility power instead of a diesel engine. It suits MRO hangars and stands where you have the electrical supply.
Are Hobart and TLD Moving to Electric GPUs?
Yes, both makers now build battery-powered models, though the units listed at Victory GSE are diesel or facility-powered. ITW GSE introduced its first battery GPU in 2018, according to Ground Support Worldwide.
TLD followed with the POWER-409 battery GPU, launched in 2023. Seven of its battery packs can support 10 Boeing 737 turnarounds before recharging, per Ground Support Worldwide’s 2024 product leader profile.
Diesel units still make sense for remote stands, FBOs and operations without charging capacity. They run as long as there is fuel and need no grid hookup.
Buying, Renting or Leasing a Hobart or TLD GPU
Victory GSE sells, rents and leases Hobart and TLD ground power units. Buying fits steady, year-round GPU demand. Renting or leasing fits seasonal peaks, a new contract, or a trial of a model before you commit.
Whichever route you choose, match output and rating to your aircraft first. Browse every listed unit on our ground power units page, then reach out with your needs.
Hobart vs. TLD GPU FAQ
Is Hobart or TLD better for a 737 or A320?
Both can handle it. A 90 kVA, 400 Hz unit is the usual choice for narrow-body jets. Hobart’s 90CU20 and 90D20-PLD and TLD’s GPU-4000 at 90 kVA all fit that rating.
Does TLD make a 28 VDC ground power unit?
TLD builds DC and combination units, but none is listed at Victory GSE right now. For 28.5 VDC power, the listed options are the Hobart Jet-Ex 4D and Jet-Ex 5D.
Who owns Hobart ground power?
Hobart is part of ITW GSE, a business of Illinois Tool Works. ITW kept the Hobart name when it grouped its aircraft power brands in 2014.
What is the highest kVA GPU in this comparison?
The TLD GPU-4000, which can provide up to 180 kVA continuously depending on its options. The TLD ACE-4140 version is rated at 140 kVA.
Can I rent or lease a Hobart or TLD GPU instead of buying?
Yes. Victory GSE offers Hobart and TLD ground power units to buy, rent or lease. Contact the team with your aircraft types and timeline.
Buy, rent or lease a Hobart or TLD GPU
Victory GSE lists Hobart and TLD ground power units for AC, DC and hangar use. Tell us your aircraft and we will help you choose.
